What Is Beclomethasone? Uses, Dosage, and What You Need to Know in 2026

Beclomethasone is a corticosteroid medication used to prevent and control symptoms of asthma and allergic rhinitis. It's been prescribed for over 50 years and remains a cornerstone of asthma management. In the United States, it is most commonly dispensed as Qvar RediHaler for asthma and Beconase AQ or QNASL for nasal symptoms.

What Is Beclomethasone Used For?

Beclomethasone has several FDA-approved uses and a few off-label applications:

Asthma maintenance (Qvar RediHaler): Used as a daily controller inhaler to prevent asthma attacks in adults and children ages 4 and older. It does NOT treat an acute asthma attack that is already in progress — you need a rescue inhaler (like albuterol) for that.

Seasonal and perennial allergic rhinitis (Beconase AQ, QNASL): The nasal spray forms relieve sneezing, runny nose, nasal congestion, and itching caused by seasonal (hay fever) or year-round (perennial) allergies.

Skin conditions (topical cream): Topical beclomethasone creams and ointments are used for inflammatory skin conditions like psoriasis, eczema, and contact dermatitis.

Off-label uses: Oral beclomethasone tablets have been used in some countries for ulcerative colitis; COPD management is another off-label use discussed in some guidelines.

What Are the Brand Names for Beclomethasone?

Qvar RediHaler — Inhaler for asthma (40 mcg and 80 mcg per actuation); manufactured by Teva; breath-actuated

Beconase AQ — Aqueous nasal spray for allergic rhinitis (42 mcg/spray)

QNASL — Non-aqueous nasal aerosol for allergic rhinitis (40 mcg or 80 mcg)

Discontinued: Beclovent and Vanceril (older Beclomethasone inhaler brands) are no longer available in the U.S.

What Drug Class Is Beclomethasone?

Beclomethasone is an inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) — a class of medications that reduce inflammation in the airways. It is a glucocorticoid that binds to glucocorticoid receptors found in nearly every cell in the body. The inhaled form is preferred for asthma because it delivers the medication directly to the airways with minimal systemic absorption.

Beclomethasone Dosage and Forms

Inhaled (Qvar RediHaler):

Adults and children 12+: Start 40-80 mcg twice daily; maximum 320 mcg twice daily

Children ages 5-11: 40 mcg twice daily; maximum 80 mcg twice daily

Available strengths: 40 mcg/actuation or 80 mcg/actuation (10.6g canister, 120 inhalations)

Nasal spray (Beconase AQ):

Adults and children 6+: 1-2 sprays (42 mcg/spray) in each nostril twice daily

Important Facts About Beclomethasone

Not a rescue inhaler. Beclomethasone prevents asthma attacks but won't help during an active attack. Always keep a rescue inhaler (like albuterol) on hand.

Not a controlled substance. Beclomethasone is not a DEA-scheduled drug. No special prescribing rules apply.

No generic inhaler available. Qvar RediHaler has no generic; device patents expire ~May 2031. This is why it costs $306-$414 without insurance.

Takes time to work. You may notice some improvement within 1-2 days, but full benefit can take up to 4 weeks of consistent twice-daily use.

Don't stop abruptly. Stopping your ICS suddenly can lead to worsening asthma. Always work with your doctor if you want to reduce your dose.

Rinse after each use. Rinse your mouth with water and spit after every dose to prevent oral thrush and throat irritation.

Is Beclomethasone the Right Medication for You?

Beclomethasone is a well-established, effective treatment for asthma and allergic rhinitis. Whether it's the right choice for you depends on your specific condition, other medications you take, and your insurance coverage. Your doctor can help you decide. For more details on how the medication works, see our guide on how Beclomethasone works. If you need help finding it at a pharmacy near you, visit medfinder.